If you are currently looking for your next home, congrats! It is an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming. There are a lot of factors to consider when searching for the perfect house, but as your local experts in heating and cooling, we are also here to remind you that it is essential to not overlook the HVAC system of a house when considering a prospective home. But how will you know what to look for when walking through a home you may be interested in unless you’re a licensed professional? Good question! To make this whole process a tad easier for you, your team at Wilmington Heating & Cooling has compiled a list of red flags that anyone who is looking to buy a home can easily spot during a walkthrough.
1. HOW ABOUT THE AGE OF THE HVAC SYSTEM?
If looking at an older house, it’s crucial to be aware of if the HVAC system is the original system or now. This is because older systems tend to be less efficient and more prone to issues. Just like a car, HVAC systems can lose efficiency over time. So, even if the system is not the original one, it’s still important to consider its age and condition.
For the most part, a house listing will include information about the HVAC system in the description so that when you tour the home, you already have an idea. But in the case, the listing doesn’t have this information, you can do a quick inspection of the HVAC units to get a rough estimate of their condition and age. For example, if you notice a lot of dust or corrosion on your HVAC unit, it may be a sign that it has not been properly maintained or that it is an older system. Remember, heating and cooling units should be serviced annually to keep them in good condition. So, excessive dust or rust buildup are clear indicators that it has not been well taken care of as recommended.
It’s important to note that older HVAC systems are not necessarily bad, but it’s worth knowing that even a well-maintained unit typically lasts 15-20 years. So, if you decide to buy an older house, you should be aware that you may need to replace the heating or cooling unit (or both) in the near future. Having this knowledge ahead of time could be beneficial for negotiating reasons.
2. HOW ABOUT UNREGULATED AIR?
During your home tour, remember to take note of the temperature in each room, along with its size, windows, and closet space. Some rooms may feel stuffier or draftier than others for various reasons, so it’s important to be aware of this and plan accordingly for any future adjustments that may be needed.
3. HOW ABOUT UNWELCOME OR MUSTY ODORS?
Paying attention to strange or musty smells coming from the HVAC vents or registers is crucial as it could indicate problems with the ductwork or HVAC system. Don’t ignore these odors, and you might even be able to negotiate a duct cleaning if you plan to buy the house.
4. HOW ABOUT IRREGULAR SOUNDS?
It’s important to listen for any unusual sounds coming from the HVAC system, such as loud rattling, banging, or buzzing. These noises could indicate an underlying issue with the system, so it’s important to also pay attention to them. While they may not necessarily be a deal breaker, it’s best to be aware these odd noises may need to be addressed down the road.
5. HOW ABOUT NO HVAC MAINTENANCE HISTORY?
If you’re still interested in proceeding further with the home – great! We suggest you ask for the maintenance and repair records of the HVAC system as part of your next step. These records will reveal any past repairs or maintenance work carried out on the system. If there are no records available, it could indicate that the system has not been well-maintained, which is frankly another red flag that needs to be considered. Also, if a unit has undergone frequent repairs, you should be cautious of this too.
THE SOLUTION: WHY REQUEST AN HVAC INSPECTION?
Keep in mind that the red flags mentioned are not absolute deal-breakers when it comes to your dream home. Instead, consider them as indicators that you should be mindful of. With this in mind, you can make a well-informed decision, negotiate properly, and plan for the future accordingly.
We are happy to inform you that we provide HVAC inspection services. Our NATE-certified technician will visit the home and conduct a comprehensive examination of the HVAC system and provide a detailed report on its current condition, along with recommendations for any necessary repairs or upgrades. (This usually can be negotiated into the terms and arranged by the homeowner if you decide to move forward with the house.)
We realize this may seem like an unnecessary step, but this inspection will help you avoid unforeseen issues and avoid an unwelcome surprise. Purchasing a home is a major investment, so it is vital to know what you are getting into to avoid unpleasant surprises soon after moving in.
You can count on Wilmington Heating & Cooling for all your HVAC needs. Call us at (937) 764-3575, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
